Explore Colorado at 150: Free Family History Events at Pioneers Museum This Fall

Colorado is turning 150 years old in 2026 — and there are free family events happening right here in Colorado Springs to mark the occasion.

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is hosting the "We The People: Colorado at 150" lecture series this fall as part of the national America 250 and statewide Colorado 150 dual celebration. The next lecture is Friday, October 17 at 2 PM at the museum, exploring the diverse experiences and voices that have shaped Colorado's 150-year history.

The America 250 / Colorado 150 Celebration

2026 marks two major anniversaries simultaneously: the 250th anniversary of the United States, and Colorado's 150th year of statehood. El Paso County has a dedicated America 250/Colorado 150 commission coordinating events across the region, and the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is one of the anchors for local programming.

The "We The People: Colorado at 150" lecture series at the Pioneers Museum focuses on the history of Colorado from the perspective of the people who built it — including communities and voices that are not always at the center of traditional historical narratives. For families with children studying Colorado history in school, the lectures offer context that goes beyond textbook summaries.

The Pioneers Museum Is Free Every Day

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum at 215 S Tejon Street is free to visit every day — not just for special events. The museum's permanent collection covers the history of Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region, with rotating exhibits throughout the year.

The America 250/Colorado 150 programming adds a seasonal reason to visit this fall, especially for families with children who are in the middle of a Colorado history unit in school. A museum visit can bring the curriculum to life in a way that a classroom alone cannot.

Walking History Tours

For families who want a more active way to experience Colorado Springs history, Downtown CS offers "Seeing History in Place" walking history tours for $10 per person. These tours connect the city's built environment — its architecture, street grid, and neighborhoods — to the broader story of Colorado's development over the past 150 years.

More information about America 250/Colorado 150 events in Colorado Springs and El Paso County is available at coloradosprings.gov/America250Colorado150.

What's Next

The next "We The People: Colorado at 150" lecture is October 17 at 2 PM at the Pioneers Museum. Admission is free, and no registration appears to be required — but families planning to attend with children should confirm details at coloradosprings.gov/America250Colorado150 or by contacting the museum directly before the event. Additional lectures in the series are expected to continue through the fall.